|
|
Vincent Yang. Digestive Diseases.
Phone: 727-5638
Email: vyang@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: The focus of our research interest is on understanding the molecular mechanisms that control proliferation and differentiation of the intestinal epithelial cells. In particular, our group has concentrated on the roles played by a number of Kruppel-like transcription factors in regulating these two important biological processes in the gut epithelium. One factor, called Kruppel-like factor 4 or KLF4, is a negative regulator of proliferation that mediates the functions of two important tumor suppressors, APC and p53. The other, called KLF5, is pro-proliferative and mediates the activities of important proto-oncoproteins including RAS and WNT. Our hypothesis that the two KLFs function in the larger network of tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes to regulate intestinal epithelial proliferation and differentiation. The knowledge derived from these studies may impact on the mechanism of gut development and tumorigenesis.
Student Requirements: Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Ghaleb, A.M., Nandan, M.O., Chanchevalap, S., Dalton, W.B., Hisamuddin, I. M., and Yang, V.W. (2005) Kruppel-like factors 4 and 5: the yin and yang regulators of cellular proliferation. Cell Research 15, 92-96.
(2) Nandan, M.O., Chanchevalap, S., Dalton, W. B., and Yang, V.W. (2005)Kruppel-like factor 5 promotes mitosis by activating the cyclin B1/Cdc2 complex during oncogenic Ras-mediated transformation. FEBS Letters 579, 4757-4762.
(3) Yoon, H.S., Ghaleb, A.M., Nandan, M.O., Hisamuddin, I.M., Dalton, W.B., and Yang, V.W. (2005) Kruppel-like 4 prevents centrosome amplification following g irradiation-induced DNA damage. Oncogene 24, 4017-4025.
(4) Ouko, L., Ziegler, T. R., Gu, L. H., Eisenberg, L. M., and Yang, V. W. (2004) Wnt11 signaling promotes proliferation, transformation and migration of IEC6 intestinal epithelial cells. Journal of Biological Chemistry 279, 26707-26715.
(5) Hisamuddin, I.M., Wehbi, M., Schmotzer. B., Easley, K., Hylind, L., Giardiello, F.M., and Yang, V.W. (2005) Genetic polymorphisms of flavin monooxygenase 3 in sulindac-induced regression of colorectal adenomas in familial adenomatous polyposis. Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention 14, 2366-2369.
Techniques used in this lab: Cell culture, PCR, Northern and Western blot, immunohistochemistry, transfection, DNA plasmid work
|
James Lah. Neurology.
Phone: 404-727-3727
Email: jlah@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 0
Project Description: Mechanisms of neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease
Student Requirements:
Techniques used in this lab:
|
Lou Ann Brown. Pediatrics.
Phone: 404-727-5739
Email: lbrow03@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: Background: Alcohol abuse has significantly increased in women of childbearing age resulting in a large population of premature infants with fetal alcohol exposure. Alcohol-induced oxidant stress and damage is best described in the developing brain, however, all developing organ systems are exposed to alcohol-induced oxidative stress. We have shown that maternal alcohol abuse increased the risk of early onset sepsis in the very low birth weight premature neonate. In utero exposure to pro-inflammatory cytokines increases the risk of adverse outcomes in the premature newborn such as chronic lung disease and sepsis. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) results from chronic intrauterine exposure to pro-inflammatory cytokines that primes the fetal lung so that minimally injurious postnatal events provoke an exuberant pulmonary inflammatory response and potentiates lung injury.
In adults, chronic alcohol abuse depletes the antioxidant glutathione (GSH), induces chronic oxidant stress and a chronic pro-inflammatory state. This subsequently results in an exaggerated response to a second hit such as sepsis or trauma. As observed in adults, we do not believe that fetal alcohol exposure alone causes BPD. Rather, we postulate that alcohol-induced fetal GSH depletion results in a chronic pro-inflammatory state that places the very premature lung at a greater risk for injury when a second hit occurs. In animal models of in utero alcohol exposure, we are exploring fetal lung GSH depletion, chronic oxidant stress and a chronic pro-inflammatory state that subsequently delays lung maturation and increases the risk of lung injury when there is premature delivery. Furthermore, we propose that GSH precursors will attenuate that injury when given after delivery.
Student Requirements: Juniors and seniors only
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) T.W. Gauthier, X.D. Ping, F.L. Harris, M. Wong, H. Elbahesh, and L.A.S. Brown. Fetal alcohol exposure impairs alveolar macrophage functions via decreased glutathione availability. Pediatr. Res. 57: 76-81 (2005).
(2) L.A.S. Brown, F.L. Harris, X.-D. Ping and T.W. Gauthier. Chronic ethanol ingestion and the risk of acute lung injury: a role for glutathione availability? Alcohol 33: 191-197 (2004).
(3) M.H. Manar, M.R. Brown, T.W. Gauthier, and L.A.S. Brown. Association of glutathione-S-transferase P1 (GST-P1) polymorphisms with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. J. Perinatol. 24: 30-35 (2004).
(4) A. Pelaez, R.I. Bechara, P.C. Joshi, L.A.S. Brown and D.M. Guidot. Granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor treatment improves alveolar epithelial barrier function in alcoholic rat lung. Am. J. Physiol. (Lung Cell Mol. Physiol.) 286: L106-L111 (2004).
Techniques used in this lab: Fluorescent microscopy; confocal microscopy; real time PCR; western blot analysis
|
Judith Fridovich-Keil. Human Genetics.
Phone: 404-727-3924
Email: jfridov@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Studies of normal galactose metabolism and the impact of impaired galactose metabolism on patients with transferase- or epimerase-deficiency galactosemia. Projects range from genetic and biochemical studies in yeast to mammalian cell studies to work with patient cells and samples. Our goals are to understand the mechanism and implications of normal galactose metabolism in eukaryotes, as well as the pathophysiology of galactosemia. Our ultimate goal is to devise novel and improved treatments for patients with this family of metabolic disorders.
Student Requirements: Applicants should be self-motivated students seriously considering a career in biological or biomedical research. Student must have at least some (classroom or laboratory) prior exposure to genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology.
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Openo, KK, JM Schulz, CA Vargas, CS Orton, MP Epstein, RE Schnur, F Scaglia, GT Berry, GS Gottesman, C Ficicioglu, AE Slonim, RJ Schroer, C Yu, V Rangel, J Keenan, K Lamance, and JL Fridovich-Keil. Epimerase-deficiency galactosemia is not a binary condition. Am J Hum Gen. In press 10/2005.
(2) Schulz, JM, KL Ross, K Malmstrom, M. Krieger, and JL Fridovich-Keil (2005). Mediators of galactose sensitivity in UDP-galactose 4'-epimerase impaired mammalian cells. J. Biol. Chem. 280(14):13493-502.
(3) Wasilenko, J., M.E. Lucas, J.B. Thoden, H.M. Holden, and J.L. Fridovich-Keil (2005). Functional characterization of the K257R and G319E hGALE alleles found in patients with ostensibly peripheral epimerase deficiency galactosemia. Molecular Genetics and Metabolism 84(1):32-8.
(4) Henderson, J.M., A. Watson, R. Sanders, J.B. Thoden, H.M. Holden, and J.L. Fridovich-Keil (2004) Determinants of Function and Substrate Specificity in Human UDP-Galactose 4-Epimerase. J Biol Chem 279(31):32796-803.
(5) Mendelsohn, B.A., C.A. Vargas, A-M. Li, A. Watson, K. Riehman, and J.L. Fridovich-Keil (2003). Genetic and biochemical interactions between SCP160 and EAP1 in yeast. Nucleic Acids Research. 31(20):5838-47
Techniques used in this lab: modern molecular biology, recombinant DNA, yeast genetic and biochemical manipulations, enzyme assays
Additional Comments: Flower in the Crannied Wall
by Lord Alfred Tennyson
(1809-1892)
Flower in the crannied wall,
I pluck you out of the crannies,
I hold you here, root and all, in my hand,
Little flower -but if I could understand
What you are, root and all, and all in all,
I should know what God and man is.
|
Samuel Dudley. Medicine/Cardiology.
Phone: 404-329-4626
Email: sdudley@emory.edu
Institution: Emory University
Location: Off-campus (but accessible via shuttle, e.g., Grady or VA Hospitals)
Availability: Summer
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Investigating the role of oxidative stress on sudden death risk using mice, pigs, or humans.
Additional Project Information: Investigating a new hypothesis about the role of oxidative stress in causing diastolic heart failure in mice or humans.
Student Requirements: No previous experience is required. A facility with biology, chemistry, and physics is desirable.
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) DUDLEY, Jr., S.C., N.E. HOCH, L.A. McCANN, C.HONEYCUTT, L.DIAMANDOPOULOS, T. FUKAI, D.G. HARRISON, S.I. DIKALOV, J. LANGBERG. Atrial Fibrillation Increases Production of Superoxide by the Left Atrium and Left Atrial Appendage: Role of the NADPH and Xanthine Oxidases. (2005). Circulation vol. 112, 1266-1273.
(2) 14. XIAO, H.D., S. FUCHS, D.J. CAMPBELL, W. LEWIS, S.C. DUDLEY, Jr., V.S. KASI, B.D. HOIT, G. KESHELAVA, H. ZHAO, M.R. CAMPECCHI, K.E. BERNSTEIN. Mice with cardiac Restricted Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) have Atrial Enlargement, Cardiac Arrhythmia and Sudden Death. 2004. Am. J. Pathol. 165:1019-1032.
Techniques used in this lab: Electrophysiology, animal handling and breeding, proteomics, molecular biology, electrocardiography (ECG), electron spin resonance, human trials.
|
Periasamy Selvaraj. Pathology.
Phone: (404) 727-5929
Email: pselvar@emory.edu
Institution: Emory University
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: Development of cancer vaccines using protein transfer.
Tumors modified by transfecting genes for immunostimulatory molecules such as B7 and cytokines are now considered as a potential therapeutic tumor vaccine. However, transfection is not always efficient and can be difficult with many cell types, especially freshly isolated tumor cells from patients. Moreover, transfection of genes requires the introduction of vectors of viral origin which is not desirable for human therapeutic purposes. Studies have shown that purified GPI-anchored cell surface proteins can be spontaneously incorporated into membranes by incubating the proteins with the cells or cell membranes (Protein Transfer). This unique property can be used to reconstitute cell surface expression receptors on cell membranes without the use of gene transfection. Using recombinant techniques, we have developed many immunostimulatory molecules including B7-1, IL-2, and IL-12 as GPI-anchored form. Currently we are working on mouse models of cancer to determine the efficacy of vaccine prepared using protein transfer technology. In the long-term the knowledge obtained from this study could be used to develop an effective cancer vaccine to treat cancer patients.
Additional Project Information: Structure and function on Fc receptors. Fc receptors for IgG (FcgR) are involved in phagocytosis, antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, and removal of immune complexes from blood circulation. FcgR III (CD16) is expressed in macrophages, granulocytes and NK cells. CD16 on granulocytes is phosphatidyl inositol glycan (GPI) anchored whereas the CD16 expressed on NK cells and macrophages is polypeptide anchored. These two membrane anchor isoforms of CD16 differ in triggering signals for tumor cell cytotoxicity and phagocytosis. Further structure-function studies will be carried out on membrane isoforms of CD16. We have also identified that the avidity state of FcgRII is regulated by cell activation. Future studies will focus on the defining the molecular mechanisms involved in regulation of affinity of FcgRII molecule expressed on human neutrophils.
Student Requirements: Chemistry
Sophomore, Juniors, Seniors
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Cimino, AM, Kim, AC, and P. SELVARAJ. Cancer Vaccine Development: Protein Transfer of Membrane-anchored Cytokines and Immunostimulatory Molecules. Immunol Res. 2004; 29:231-40
(2) Bumgarner, GW, Zampell, JC., Nagarajan, S, Poloso, NJ., Dorn, AS, D'Souza MJ, and P. SELVARAJ. Modified cell ELISA to determine the solubilization of cell surface proteins: Applications in GPI-anchored protein purification. J. Biochem. Biophys. Methods 2005; 64:99-109.
(3) SELVARAJ P, Fifadara NH, Cimino A, and Wang G. Functional Regulation of Human Neutrophil Fc gamma Receptors. Immunol Res. 2004 29:219-30
(4) Poloso NJ, Nagarajan S, Mejia-Oneta JM, SELVARAJ P. GPI-anchoring of GM-CSF results in active membrane-bound and partially shed cytokine. Mol Immunol. 2002; 38:803-16.
(5) Nagarajan S, Fifadara N, and P. SELVARAJ. Signal specific activation and regulation of human neutrophil Fc gamma receptors. J. Immunol 2005; 174: 5423-32.
Techniques used in this lab:
|
mauricio rojas. pulmonary.
Phone: 404-7122169
Email: mrojas@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: We are interested to study mechanisms of lung repair. We investigate the role of stem cells, immune response and viral infection. The student will be enroll in one of these projects and will participate in the design, execution and analysis of the experiments.
Student Requirements:
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Rojas M et al, Am J Resp Cell Mol Biol, 33:2005; 146
Techniques used in this lab:
|
Michael Koval. Pulmonary Medicine.
Phone: 404-712-2976
Email: mhkoval@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: We use a combination of molecular, cell biology and physiological techniques to study how cells regulate intercellular communication pathways and roles for these pathways in health and disease. Research in my lab falls into three major categories: 1) Trafficking and assembly of membrane proteins at cell junctions, 2) Roles for intercellular communication in lung function and injury, 3) Interplay between cell adhesion and endocytosis
Additional Project Information: For more information and references please see: http://userwww.service.emory.edu/~mhkoval/
Student Requirements: Completion of first year chemistry preferred. Also, an interest in biomedical research and the ability to work independently are encouraged. Students are required to participate in general laboratory maintenance in addition to work on their project.
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Daugherty, B.L., et al., Regulation of heterotypic claudin compatibility.
J Biol Chem. 282:30005-30013. (2007).
(2) Patel A.S., et al. Paracrine stimulation of surfactant secretion by extracellular ATP in response to mechanical deformation. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol. 289:L489-96. (2005).
(3) Daugherty, B.L., et al., Developmental regulation of claudin localization by fetal alveolar epithelial cells. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol. 287:L1266-73 (2004).
(4) Abraham V., et al. Heterocellular gap junctional communication between alveolar epithelial cells. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol. 280:L1085-93 (2001).
(5) Abraham V., et al. Phenotypic control of gap junctional communication by cultured alveolar epithelial cells. Am J Physiol. 276:L825-34 (1999).
Techniques used in this lab: Molecular biological approaches to create chimeric and mutant junction proteins to identify sorting and assembly motifs, Development of cultured cell models which mimic in vivo cell-cell interactions using established cell lines and primary lung epithelial cells, Quantitative fluorescence microscopy to examine protein expression, membrane trafficking and cell-cell communication
|
Jorg Goronzy. Lowance Center.
Phone: 404-7277325
Email: jgoronz@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: We are using gene expression arraying of naive and memory T cell responses to identify genes of interest that may be causatively involved in declining immune responses with age. Changes in gene expression is confirmed in population-based studies and functional implications of the over- or underexpression is studied in in vitro assays.
Student Requirements: Background in immunology would be advantageous.
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) J Immunol. 2005 Jun 1;174(11):7446-52.
The influence of age on T cell generation and TCR diversity.
Naylor K, Li G, Vallejo AN, Lee WW, Koetz K, Bryl E, Witkowski J, Fulbright J, Weyand CM, Goronzy JJ.
(2) J. Biol. Chem., Vol. 280, Issue 25, 24277-24285, June 24, 2005
Distinct Transcriptional Control Mechanisms of Killer Immunoglobulin-like Receptors in Natural Killer (NK) and in T Cells*
Jing Xu, Abbe N. Vallejo?, Yong Jiang?, Cornelia M. Weyand{ddagger}, and Jorg J. Goronzy{ddagger}
(3) Uncoupling of T Cell Effector Functions by Inhibitory Killer Immunoglobulin-like Receptors
Running Head: Inhibitory KIRs and T cells
Gabriella Henel1, 2 (a,b,c,d)
Karnail Singh1 (b,c)
Dapeng Cui1 (b,c)
Sergey Pryshchep1 (b)
Won-Woo Lee1 (b)
Cornelia M. Weyand1 (a,c)
Jorg J. Goronzy1 (a,c,d)
Blood 2006, epub ahead of publication
Techniques used in this lab:
|
Jeff Boatright. Ophthalmology.
Phone: 404 778-4113
Email: jboatri@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 0
Project Description: Dr. Boatright is a graduate of Brown University (Sc.B. in Neural Sciences and Experimental Psychology) and Emory University (Ph.D. in Pharmacology and the Neurosciences Training Program). He joined the faculty of the Department of Ophthalmology in 1999, conducting research on the regulation of retinal gene expression funded by an independent R01 grant from the National Institutes of Health National Eye Institute (NIH NEI). This research expanded into using endogenous DNA repair mechanisms treat genetic mutations that lead to blindness, work also funded by an independent NEI R01. In a separate project, Dr. Boatright uses in vivo pharmacological approaches to explore the effects of atypical, endogenous compounds on animal models of retinal degeneration and glaucoma. This work is funded by the Foundation Fighting Blindness, NIH National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NIH NCCAM), and a Merit Award from the Veterans Administration.
Additional Project Information: Dr. Boatright is founding and current Editor-in-Chief of Molecular Vision, a peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the dissemination of research results in molecular biology, cell biology, and the genetics of the visual system. The journal is rated second in a field of 14 competing journals and is routinely used as an Open Access exemplar by the National Library of Medicine and The National Institutes of Health Library. The journal is supported by Knights Templar and through initiatives generated in the Department of Ophthalmology.
Student Requirements: We can start from scratch.
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Techniques used in this lab:
|
Kathy Griendling. Medicine.
Phone: 404-727-3364
Email: kgriend@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: Our laboratory studies the molecular mechanisms by which reactive oxygen species (ROS) regulate the function of vascular smooth muscle cells, the cells responsible for contraction of the vessel wall and thus regulation of blood pressure. ROS mediate smooth muscle cell differentiation, migration and proliferation, in part by regulating signaling molecules compartmentalized within the cell. We use both cell culture and animal models to test the role of ROS in vascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, restenosis, and diabetic vasculopathy.
Student Requirements: Basic biology and chemistry necessary. Biochemistry strongly suggested.
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Dikalova A, Lassegue B, Clempus R, Cheng G, McCoy J, Dikalov S, San Martin A, Lyle A, Weber DS, Weiss D, Taylor WR, Schmidt HHHW, Owens GK, Lambeth JD, Griendling KK. Nox1 overexpression potentiates angiotensin II-induced hypertension and vascular smooth muscle hypertrophy in transgenic mice. Circulation 2005;96:269-271.
(2) Taniyama Y, Hitomi H, Shah A, Alexander RW, Griendling KK. Mechanisms of reactive oxygen species-dependent downregulation of IRS-1 by angiotensin II. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2005;25:1142-1147.
(3) Weber DS, Rocic P, Mellis AM, Laude K, Lyle AN, Harrison DG, Griendling KK. Angiotensin II-induced hypertrophy is potentiated in mice overexpressing p22phox in vascular smooth muscle. Am J PhysiolHeart & Circ Physiol 2005; 288:H37-42.
(4) Taniyama Y, Ushio-Fukai M, Rocic P, Kingsley MJ, Hitomi H, Pfahnl C, Weber DS, Alexander RW, Griendling KK. Role of p38MAPK and MAPKAPK-2 in angiotensin II-induced Akt activation in vascular smooth muscle cells. Am J Physiol-Cell Physiology 2004;287:C494-499.
(5) Clempus RE, Sorescu D, Dikalova AE, Pounkova L, Jo P, Lass¿gue B, Griendling KK. Nox4 is required for maintenance of the differentiated vascular smooth muscle cell phenotype. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2007;27:42-48.
Techniques used in this lab: cell culture
Western analysis
PCR
Blood pressure measurement
Histology
|
Shanthi Sitaraman. Medicine.
Phone: 404-727-2430
Email: ssitar2@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Characterization of the role of metalloproteinases in inflammatory bowel disease. We have shown that metalloproteinases cause worsening of colitis. The project will involve studying the effect of metalloproteinases in vitro intestinal cell lines using inflammatory, wound healing as read-out assays.
Additional Project Information: Elucidate the regulation and role of adenosine receptor in inflammatory bowel disease
Student Requirements: Previous laboratory experience preferred but not necessary
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Castaneda et. al. Targeted deletion of metalloproteinase attenuates colitis. Gastroenterology 2005
Techniques used in this lab: Western blot, zymography, cloning, PCR, bacterial assays, immunohistochemistry
|
Paul Doetsch. Biochemistry.
Phone: 404-727-0409
Email: medpwd@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Project would address some aspects of the interconnections between DNA repair and DNA damage tolerance systems in the management of DNA damage using a simple eukaryotic model system (yeast) in order to understand this process in higher organisms (i.e. humans) and its relationship to the development of cancer. Techniques would include genetic, biochmical and molecular biological experimental strategies.
Additional Project Information: We are also using the yeast model system and its genetic and biochemical dissectability to elucidate the mechanisms of action of anticancer drugs and to use isogenic strains of yeast as a potential rapid, inexpensive drug screening tool.
Student Requirements: General science background in biology or chemistry. Undergraduate genetics would be very useful but not absolute requirement.. Undergraduate biochemistry would be useful but not required.
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Evert BA, Salmon TB, Song B, Liu JJ, Siede W, Doetsch PW. (2004) Spontaneous DNA Damage in Saccharomyces cerevisiae Elicits Phenotypic Properties Similar to Cancer Cells. J. Biol. Chem. 279: 22585-22594.
(2) Beljanski V, Marzilli L, Doetsch PW. (2004) DNA Damage Processing Pathways Involved in the Eukaryotic Cellular Response to Anticancer DNA Crosslinking Agents. Mol. Pharm. 65:1496-1506
(3) Doudican NA, Song B, Shadel GS, Doetsch PW. (2005) Oxidative DNA Damage Causes Mitochondrial Genetic Instability in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Mol. Cell Biol. 25: 5196-5204.
(4) Salmon TB, Evert BA, Song B, Doetsch PW. (2004) Biological Consequences of Oxidative Stress-Induced DNA Damage in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Nucleic Acids Res. 32: 3712-3723.
(5) O'Rourke T, Doudican NA, Zhang H, Eaton JS, Doetsch PW, Shadel GS. (2005) Differential Involvement of the Related DNA Helicases Piflp and Rrm3p in mt DNA Point Mutagenesis and Stability. Gene 354: 86-92.
Techniques used in this lab: Yeast genetic manipulatiions including strain construction, mutagenesis and recombination assays, and biochemical techniques such as protein purificatiion and Western blot analysis. Cell biological techniques such as fluorescence microscopy and cell sorting and analysis are also likely to be used.
|
Chris Yun. Medicine.
Phone: 404-712-2865
Email: ccyun@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a lipid mediator with diverse biological properties. The effects of LPA are mediated by the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR), LPA1, LPA2 and LPA3. We have recently found that LPA2 is over-expressed in several types of cancers, suggesting that LPA2 receptor facilitates tumorigenesis. The aim of this study is to understand the role of LPA2 in colon cancer progression. Student will work on bench learning state of art molecular biologic and physiologic techniques.
Additional Project Information: Mammalian Na+/H+ exchanger NHE3 is the major contributor to Na and fluid homeostasis in intestine and kidney. The aim of this study is to understand the regulation of NHE3 by hormones and growth factors. Student will work on bench learning state of art molecular biological and physiological techniques.
Student Requirements: Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry.
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Yun, C. C., Lamprecht, G., Forster, D.V. and Sidor, A. (1998) NHE3 kinase A regulatory protein E3KARP binds the epithelial brush border Na+/H+ exchanger NHE3 and the cytoskeletal protein ezrin J. Biol. Chem. 273, 25856-25863, 1998.
(2) Yun, C.C., Sun, H., Wang,, W., Rusovici, R., Castleberry, A., Hall, R, and Shim, H. (2005) The LPA2 receptor mediates mitogenic signals in human colon cancer cells Am J. Physiol-Cell. 289:C2-C11
(3) Wang, D., Sun, H., Lang, F., and Yun, C.C. (2005) Activation of NHE3 by dexamethasone requires phosphorylation of NHE3 at S663 by SGK1. Am J. Physiol-Cell. 289: C802-810.
Techniques used in this lab: PCR, cloning, Western blot, cell culture
|
William Lewis. Pathology.
Phone: 404-712-9005
Email: wlewis@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 3
Project Description: The project would be focused on determining mitochondrial toxicity associated with NRTI antiretroviral therapy used to treat HIV/AIDS. Using transgenic cardiac-targeted murine models, outcomes are assessed using various molecular tools, including Real-time PCR, sequencing, Southern Analysis, gene copy determination, and Western Blotting. Results from 2x2 animal studies will help determine mechanisms of mitochondrial (mt) DNA depletion and NRTI toxicity.
Student Requirements: It is expected that the student has a basic understanding of biological systems and some experience handling pipettor transfer of microliter volumes with some precision. A level of maturity and interest in the research field is also expected.
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Lewis et al, AIDS, 2006, 20:675-684
(2) Lewis et al, Lab Invest, 2005, 85:182-192
Techniques used in this lab: Students will develop proficiency in standard molecular biological techniques including isolation of DNA from tissues, set up of PCR reactions, Western blots, and/or analysis of data.
|
Vin Tangpricha. Medicine.
Phone: 404-727-7254
Email: vtangpr@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Translational Vitamin D and Osteoporosis Research. Please visit www.tangpricha.com for up to date laboratory activities.
Additional Project Information: 1) Vitamin D and hypertension. This is a clinical study to evaluate whether vitamin D improves blood pressure in a randomized control trial This study is funded by the Atlanta Research and Education Foundation.
2) Vitamin D deficiency in Cystic Fibrosis- Multiple areas are available for research involving vitamin D status and cystic fibrosis patients. This has been funded by the UV Foundation.
3) Role of T-cells in Post-Menopausal Osteoporosis. This is a major trial to evaulate whether T-cells cause osteoporosis. This trial has received 5 years of funding from the National Institutes of Health. Many opportunities are available at the bench and in the General Clinical Research Clinic (GCRC)
Student Requirements: Students should have a strong foundation in human physiology. Successful students will be highly self motivated and open to learning new scientific methods.
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Tangpricha V. et al. 2004. Tanning is associated with optimal vitamin D status and higher bone density. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. December 80(6) 1645-9
(2) Tangpricha V. et al. 2002. Vitamin D insufficiency among Free Living Adults. June 2002 112(8) 659-62.
(3) Tangpricha V. et al. 2003. Fortification of orange juice with vitamin D. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. June 77(6):1478-83.
Techniques used in this lab: Clinical Trials, Basic Molecular Biology, Flow Cytometry and basic immunology, basic statistics
Additional Comments: I'm interested in clinical and basic science research involving vitamin D, calcium and osteoporosis.
|
Katherine Boss-Williams. Psychiatry.
Phone: 404 712-9771
Email: kwilli4@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: Off-campus (but accessible via shuttle, e.g., Grady or VA Hospitals)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 0
Project Description: A student will may perform but is not limited to, stereotaxic surgery, perfusion, immunohistochemistry, histology, drug administration and implantation of minipumps. Also, may conduct behavioral and/or pharmacological experiments using small rodents as subjects. These may include, but are not limited to, testing rats on the Morris Water Maze, the Elevated Plus Maze, monitoring ambulation via a computer-assisted program. The operation of electrical equipment, PCs experimental apparatus, animal handling, testing of subjects, recording of results, and graphing and analyzing data.
Student Requirements: Extremely well organized is a must
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Techniques used in this lab: stereotaxic surgery, perfusion, immunohistochemistry, histology, drug administration and implantation of minipumps, testing rats on the Morris Water Maze, the Elevated Plus Maze, monitoring ambulation via a computer-assisted program, animal handling, recording of results, graphing and analyzing data.
|
David Pallas. Biochemistry/WCI.
Phone: 404-727-5620
Email: dpallas@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 0
Project Description: PP2A is an important phosphatase involved in the regulation of the cell cycle, of apoptosis, and of neuronal function. It has been implicated in both cancer and Alzheimer's Disease. An example of a project an undergraduate could carry out would be to investigate the mechanism of regulation of PP2A by methylation, phosphorylation, etc. Approaches could include shRNA knockdown of enzymes that regulate PP2A, cell biological approaches using time-lapse microscopy, immunological and biochemical monotoring of PP2A's modification and activity, and a variety of other possible genetic, cell biological, or biochemical approaches.
Student Requirements: Juniors and seniors only, unless there are exceptional circumstances where the student has taken a variety of college level biochemistry and related courses.
Techniques used in this lab:
|
Monnie Wasse. Medicine.
Phone: 404-727-1598
Email: hwasse@emory.edu
Institution: Emory University
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Clinical, Patient-oriented research on the effect of Vitamin D on vascular biology in end-stage renal disease patients. The current novel study is a randomized controlled trial to evaluate whether vitamin D improves hemodialysis vascular access outcomes. This study is funded by a University Research Grant.
Additional Project Information: 1) Differences in Thrombophilia and Inflammatatory markers among patients with thrombosed and dysfunctional dialysis vascular access. This study has received 5 years of funding from the National Institutes of Health. 2) The Cardiovascular Effects of Arteriovenous Fistulas in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients. This study has received 4 years of funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
Student Requirements: Student should be very self-motivated,patient-oriented, and have a strong background in human physiology.
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Wasse et al. Arteriovenous Fistula Use is Associated with Lower Cardiovascular Mortality Compared with Catheter Use among ESRD Patients, Semin Dial, 2008 Sept-Oct: 21 (5): 483-89
(2) Wasse et al. Predictors of Central Venous Catheter Use at Initiation of Hemodialysis, Semin. Dial, Jul-Aug: 21 (4): 346-51
(3) Badero, Salifu, Wasse, Work. Frequency of Swing-Segment Stenosis in Referred Dialysis Patients with Angiographically Documented Lesions. , Am. J Kidney Dis, 2008 Jan; 51 (1): 93-8.
(4) Wasse et al. Predictors of Delayed Transition from Central Venous Catheter Use to Permanent Vascular Access Among ESRD Patients, Am. J Kidney Dis, 2007 Feb; 49 (2): 276-283
Techniques used in this lab: Clinical trials, observational studies, basic physiology, basic statistics
|
Danny Reines. Biochemistry.
Phone: 4047273361
Email: dreines@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer
Lab Positions: 0
Project Description: We are working with yeast to understand a new gene regulatory circuit that controls transcription.
Student Requirements: lab courses or prior work in a lab would help,
biology/chemistry coursework useful for conceptual background
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Kopcewicz KA, O'Rourke TW, Reines D.
Free in PMC
Metabolic regulation of IMD2 transcription and an unusual DNA element that generates short transcripts.
Mol Cell Biol. 2007 Apr;27(8):2821-9. Epub 2007 Feb 12.
(2) McPhillips CC, Hyle JW, Reines D.
Free in PMC
Detection of the mycophenolate-inhibited form of IMP dehydrogenase in vivo.
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2004 Aug 17;101(33):12171-6
(3) Smith KT, Coffee B, Reines D.
Free Full Text
Occupancy and synergistic activation of the FMR1 promoter by Nrf-1 and Sp1 in vivo.
Hum Mol Genet. 2004 Aug 1;13(15):1611-21. Epub 2004 Jun 2.
(4) Shaw RJ, Bonawitz ND, Reines D.
Free Full Text
Use of an in vivo reporter assay to test for transcriptional and translational fidelity in yeast.
J Biol Chem. 2002 Jul 5;277(27):24420-6. Epub 2002 May 2.
(5) Shaw RJ, Wilson JL, Smith KT, Reines D.
Free Full Text
Regulation of an IMP dehydrogenase gene and its overexpression in drug-sensitive transcription elongation mutants of yeast.
J Biol Chem. 2001 Aug 31;276(35):32905-16. Epub 2001 Jul 5.
Techniques used in this lab: Northern blotting, recombinant DNA assembly, cell transformation, introducing DNA into the genome via homologus recombination, PCR and RT-PCR, primer extension end mapping and others.
|
Timothy Johnson. Urology.
Phone: 404-217-6419
Email: tvjohn2@emory.edu
Institution: Emory University SOM
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 4
Project Description: Literacy has become a prerequisite for patient care due to the increased utilization of written screening tools in response to decreased time devoted to personal interaction between patients and doctors. However, low literacy plagues about 90 million Americans. As many as 21% of Americans are estimated to be illiterate and another 27% have impaired literacy skills, an impediment that greatly affects patients health care. Patients with decreased literacy particularly experience difficulty with written screening tools, since the majority are written at the 10th reading level or higher while the average American reads at an 8th or 9th grade level.
Urology and other medical specialties utilize screening tools and symptom scores to identify at-risk patients, provide counseling about invasive treatments, and chart symptom progression for many diseases. In the treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), the most commonly used screening tool is the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). The IPSS, designed to be self-administered by patients, is so relied upon that the American Urological Association places the IPSS in its management algorithm for BPH behind only history and physical.
However, our initial research suggests that at most only one-third of patients properly understand the IPSS. This misunderstanding is driven by patients education level, reading level, and even depression state. Our most recent study suggests that depressed patients report significantly higher IPSS scores than non-depressed patients. However, it is unclear from this initial study whether depressed patients have truly more severe BPH symptoms, or misrepresent symptoms similar to nondepressed patients. Undergraduates will participate in a crucial follow-up study to discern these possibilities. Students will interview patients, administer the IPSS and depression surveys, test patients objective BPH symptoms, and follow patient management throughout the summer.
Additional Project Information: Literacy has become a prerequisite for patient care due to the increased utilization of written screening tools in response to decreased time devoted to personal interaction between patients and doctors. However, low literacy plagues about 90 million Americans. As many as 21% of Americans are estimated to be illiterate and another 27% have impaired literacy skills, an impediment that greatly affects patients health care. Patients with decreased literacy particularly experience difficulty with written screening tools, since the majority are written at the 10th reading level or higher while the average American reads at an 8th or 9th grade level.
Urology and other medical specialties utilize screening tools and symptom scores to identify at-risk patients, provide counseling about invasive treatments, and chart symptom progression for many diseases. In the treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), the most commonly used screening tool is the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). The IPSS, designed to be self-administered by patients, is so relied upon that the American Urological Association places the IPSS in its management algorithm for BPH behind only history and physical.
However, our initial research suggests that at most only one-third of patients properly understand the IPSS. This misunderstanding is driven by patients education level and reading level. We recently designed a novel electronic version of the IPSS. Preliminary data suggest that this computerized version eliminates patient misunderstanding of the IPSS, eliminating potential problems in patient care associated with patient education and reading level. Undergraduate students will help patients use the electronic-IPSS in a larger, broader student intended for publication in a major urological journal.
Student Requirements: None. Students of all levels are welcome.
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Johnson TV, Goodman M, Master VA (2007) The efficacy of written screening tools in inner-city hospitals: Literacy-based limitations on patient access to appropriate care. J Urol. 178: 623-9.
(2) Johnson TV, Abbasi AA, Ehrlich SS, Kleris SS, Chirumamilla SL, Schoenberg ED, Owen-Smith A, Goodman M, Master VA (2007) The impact of misunderstanding individual questions of the IPSS. J Urol. In press.
(3) Johnson TV, Abbasi AA, Ehrlich SS, Kleris SS, Chirumamilla SL, Schoenberg ED, Owen-Smith A, Raison CL, Master VA (2007) The impact of depression on the perception of voiding symptoms. Eur Urol. [submitted]
(4) Johnson TV, Abbasi AA, Ehrlich SS, Kleris SS, Chirumamilla SL, Schoenberg ED, Owen-Smith A, Raison CL, Master VA (2007) CAN WE COUNT ON WRITTEN SYMPTOM SCORES? THE IMPACT OF NUMERACY ON THE IPSS.J Urol. [submitted]
(5) Johnson TV, Abbasi AA, Ehrlich SS, Kleris SS, Chirumamilla SL, Schoenberg ED, Owen-Smith A, Raison CL, Master VA (2007) A novel electronic version of the International Prostate Symptom Score. J Urol. [submitted]
Techniques used in this lab: Students will learn the most important skill in medicine: the art of taking a history. Students will also gain confidence in patient interaction while learn common and important urological measurements of BPH. Finally, students will be allowed to scrub into surgery where they will observe surgical techniques.
Additional Comments: Our research aims to address problems of critical importance through simple solutions. While cloning a gene may be exciting, equally important is mitigating the impact of depression or literacy on patient care. This research also happens to be 'soft-fail' research, meaning that even unintended results tend to be publishable. Students will have the opportunity to learn not only clinical techniques, but also the art of publishing scientific data during their summer.
|
Gretchen Neigh. Psychiatry & Behav Sci.
Phone: 404-727-9022
Email: gmccand@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Approximately 20% of the geriatric population manifests a neurobehavioral syndrome that is believed to be of vascular origin and consists of mild cognitive impairment, depression and anxiety. One possible cause for this syndrome is multiple minute strokes throughout the brain. Because of the inherent limitations of human research, my lab is using a rat model to determine if experimentally-induced multiple minute ischemic lesions produce behavioral changes similar to those documented in the geriatric human population. Data to date have demonstrated that induction of these lesions produces anxiety-like and depressive-like behaviors in young adult rats. The available project involves comparing behavioral outcomes between young adult and aged adult rats. In addition, the student would begin to analyze the differences in brain damage that occur from these lesions in a young versus an aged rat.
Student Requirements: The student should be familiar with working in a laboratory and have experience working with animals.
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Neigh, G.N., Kofler, J., Meyers, J.L., Traystman, R.J., Bergdall, V., La Perle, K., DeVries, A.C.
(2004) Cardiac arrest/cardiopulmonary resuscitation increases anxiety-like behavior and
decreases social interaction. Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism 24:372-382.
Neigh, G.N., Kofler, J., Meyers, J.L., Traystman, R.J., Bergdall, V., La Perle, K., DeVries, A.C.
(2004) Cardiac arrest/cardiopulmonary resuscitation increases anxiety-like behavior and
decreases social interaction. Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism 24:372-382.
(2) Neigh, G.N., Glasper, E., Kofler, J., Traystman, R.J., Mervis, R., Bachstatter, A.,
DeVries, A.C. (2004) Cardiac arrest/cardiopulmonary resuscitation selectively
alters formation of spatial memory and abates dendritic spines of CA1 pyramidal cells.
European Journal of Neuroscience 20:1865-1872.
(3) Neigh, G.N., Glasper, E.R., Zhang, N., Plotsky, P.M., Nemeroff, C.B., DeVries, A.C. (In prep)
Cardiac arrest and cardiopulmonary resuscitation increases CRF R1 receptor binding and alter
HPA axis responsivity.
Techniques used in this lab: behavioral testing - elevated plus maze, anhedonia, open field
histology - tissue preparation, cutting, staining
stereology - systematic assessment of tissue damage
|
Maksym Yezhelyev. Winship Cancer Institute.
Phone: 404-778-5458
Email: myezhel@emory.edu
Institution: Emory University
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Spring,Summer
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: Development of Nanoparticle-siRNA Complexes for Anti-Tumor Gene Therapy
Student Requirements: general science course completion, previous lab experience may be helpful but not necessary
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Simultaneous and Quantitative Detection of Multiple Biomarkers in Human Breast Cancers Using Semiconductor Multicolor Quantum Dots
Maksym V. Yezhelyev, Ahmad Al-Hajj, Tonqrui Liu, Ashwan Narayana, Tj Philip, Namita Jayaprakash, Revaz Machaidze and Ruth M. ORegan
Winship Cancer International Seminar, Atlanta, 2006
(2) Optimization of Quantitative Analysis of Multicolor QDs-based Biomolecular Profiling of Tumor.
Ashwan Narayana, Maksym Yezhelyev, Xiaohu Gao, Ahmed Al-Hajj, Tonqrui Liu, Tiji Philip, Shuming Nie, Ruth ORegan
AACR, 2007 Los Angeles, CA
(3) Rapamycin Enhances Cytotoxic Effect of Doxorubicin in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells.
Yezhelyev, M., Jayaprakash, N., Machaidze, R., Philip, T., Egnatashvili, V., Kooby, D.
Techniques used in this lab: SiRNA transfection, western blotting, immunohistochemistry, cell culturing, cell apoptosis, proliferation and cytotoxic assays
|
Sandra Dunbar. Nursing.
Phone: 404 727-6939
Email: sbdunba@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: We have a number of current studies with cardiovascular patients and family members, and the student project would be determined based on their interest, experience and skills. One example would be to examine the difficulties patients with multiple comorbidities have managing complex self care regimens which include medication and diet behaviors. An example would be to interview patients who have heart failure and diabetes regarding the competing and conflicting aspects of implementing a low sodium and diabetic diet, or the complexity of the medications they are taking and issues encountered. There is a medication complexity instrument that would be used to guide the collection of data. Our heart failure patients also have family members participating in the study, and the student could look at the caregiver burden data and instrument.
Additional Project Information: Another ongoing project is with people who have metabolic syndrome and risk factors for heart disease (hypertension, obesity, elevated, cholesterol, and characterizing some of their health behaviors related to physical activity and nutrition. Depending on the experience of the student with data management and statistics, we have several databases from heart failure and implantable cardioverter defibrillator studies. An example of a project that could be done with these databases includes looking at problems related to sleep or pain or depression and related factors. For all projects, once IRB clearance is received, students could have clinical experiences with patients as well as work with data for an outcome of the poster or publication.
Student Requirements: Interest in human health and interacting with people who have chronic health problem; basic research or science coursework related to scientific methods;
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Smith G. Dunbar, SB, Valderrama A, Viswanathan, B (2006) Gender differences in symptoms and indicator of physical and psychosocial status at time of implantable cardioverter defibrillator insertion. Progress in Cardiovascular Nursing. 21(2):76-82, 2006
(2) Funk M, Wood K, Valderrama A, Dunbar, SB, Supraventricular Arrhythmias: Nursing Research to Improve Health Outcomes, JCVN in press
(3) Valderrama, A. Dunbar, SB, Mensah, GH Atrial Fibrillation: Public Health Burden and Policy Implications, American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 29(5, Supplement 1): 75-80.
(4) OBrien, MC, Langberg J. Valerrama, AL, Kirkendoll, K, Romeiko, N, Dunbar SB, (2005) ICD Storm: Nursing Care Issues for Patients and Families Critical Care Nursing Clinics of N America, 17:9-16
Techniques used in this lab: Data collection from human subjects using biobehavioral methods; obtaining informed consent; data entry and analysis; clinical research methods
Additional Comments: this is a dynamic set of studies with an excellent team of research nurses to learn from
|
Thomas Ziegler. Medicine.
Phone: 404-727-7351
Email: tzieg01@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: Off-campus (but accessible via shuttle, e.g., Grady or VA Hospitals)
Availability:
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: The protocol is entitled The Role of Vitamin D and Micronutrient Status in Regulating the Immune Response to Tuberculosis: A Pilot Study. The study is a prospectively designed cross sectional pilot analysis of micronutrient status (glutamine, retinol, vitamin D, selenium, zinc) and levels of plasma, sputum, and saliva markers of immune function in patients (N=60) presenting to respiratory isolation at Grady Memorial Hospital (GMH) for rule out of active TB. Study subjects must be HIV positive (n=15) and HIV negative (n=15) patients with newly diagnosed laboratory confirmed pulmonary TB, and control subjects will be HIV negative (n=15) and HIV positive (n=15) patients admitted to GMH with respiratory symptoms, but who rule out of active pulmonary TB (rule-out controls).
Additional Project Information: We have a number of clinical research projects ongoing relevant to clinical nutrition support, including a Phase III study of glutamine supplementation in critical illness, nutritional and micronutrient status in patients with cystic fibrosis and the like. We also perform animal and cell studies relevant to nutrient effects on redox and growth control.
Student Requirements: Pre-med with an excellent GPA. Prior research experience is preferred.
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Techniques used in this lab: How to perform clinical investigations, interacting with human research subjects, blood and tissue lab processing, ELISA assays, assessment of nutritional status and body composition and other methods, clinical research design and ethics
|
Neeraj Saxena. Medicine/Digestive Dis..
Phone: 4047275623
Email: nksaxen@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: On Campus (Emory main campus)
Availability: Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: Current research project focus on elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying links between obesity, adipocytokines and carcinogenesis. Specifically, to understand the suppressive role of Adiponectin in the Leptin induced growth and metastasis of human hepatocellular carcinoma.
Student Requirements: junior or senior with biology background
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Neeraj K. Saxena, LaTonia Taliaferro Smith, Brandi Brandon, Frank A. Anania and Dipali Sharma (2008). Bidirectional cross talk between leptin and IGF-1 signaling promotes invasion and migration of triple-negative breast cancer cells via transactivation of EGFR. Cancer Research. 2008, (68): 9712-9722.
(2) Neeraj K. Saxena, Paula M. Vertino, Frank A. Anania and Dipali Sharma (2007). Leptin induced growth stimulation of breast cancer cells involves recruitment of histone acetyltransferases and mediator complex to cyclin D1 promoter via activation of Stat3. The Journal of Biological Chemistry. 2007, 282(18): 13316-13325.
8. Neeraj K. Saxena, Paula M. Vertino, Frank A. Anania and Dipali Sharma (2007). Leptin
induced growth stimulation of breast cancer cells involves recruitment of histone acetyltransferases and mediator complex to cyclin D1 promoter via activation of Stat3. The Journal of Biological Chemistry. 2007, 282(18): 13316-13325.
(3) Neeraj K. Saxena, Dipali Sharma, Songbai Lin, Xiaokun Ding, Didier Merlin and Frank A. Anania. (2007). Concomitant activation of the JAK/STAT, PI3K/AKT and ERK signaling is involved in leptin mediated promotion of invasion and migration of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Cancer Research. 2007, 67(6): 2497-2507.
(4) Songbai S. Lin, Xiaokun Ding, Neeraj K. Saxena, Lance L. Stein, and Frank A. Anania. (2006) Leptin increases Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase I (TIMP-1) gene expression by a dual Sp1/STAT3 mechanism. Molecular Endocrinology. 2006, 20(12): 3376-3388.
(5) Xiaokun Ding, Neeraj K. Saxena, Songbai lin, Amin Xu, Shanthi Srinivasan, and Frank A. Anania (2005). The role of leptin and adiponectin: a novel paradigm in adipocytokine regulation of liver fibrosis and stellate cell biology. American Journal of Pathology. 2005 June; 166(6): 1655-1669.
Techniques used in this lab: Cell culture, Transfection, Westren-blot, Cloning, plasmid-bacterial work, immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR,
|
Gregg Orloff. none.
Phone: 404-727-0308
Email: gorloff@emory.edu
Institution: Emory
Location: Off-campus (but accessible via shuttle, e.g., Grady or VA Hospitals)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 2
Project Description: CancerQuest (http://www.cancerquest.org) is an award-winning cancer education project designed to educate and empower cancer patients, caregivers, students and the general public.
We produce content, videos, animations, games, posters and other educational tools.
Students, depending on their interest and skills, could be involved in all aspects of the program including researching, science writing, video creating and editing, graphics, programming, etc.
Student Requirements: Some Biology background and an interest in education/outreach. Computer skills are not necessary but the student must have the desire to learn new programs.
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Breast Cancer: A Patient's Journey (DVD)
(2) COMPASS: Breast Cancer Edition (DVD)
(3) Gastrostomy Tubes (DVD)
Techniques used in this lab: Science writing, video editing, Flash, HTML (some), Web programming (if interested).
|
Greg Martin. Medicine/Critical Care.
Phone: (404) 616-0148
Email: greg.martin@emory.edu
Institution: Emory University
Location: Off-campus (but accessible via shuttle, e.g., Grady or VA Hospitals)
Availability: Spring,Summer,Fall
Lab Positions: 1
Project Description: Our group conducts clinical research involving patients in the intensive care units at Emory-affiliated hospitals, with the primary base of operations at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta. Our research program encompasses a range of clinical trial designs from observational cohort studies to randomized controlled treatment trials. The disease focus is on sepsis (a life-threatening complication of infection) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS: a severe and life-threatening form of respiratory failure). Our interests lie in identifying factors that influence the occurence of these diseases, and may explain disparities in their occurence or outcome, and to identify optimal treatment strategies for these conditions. Undergraduate and graduate student participation in our group is dependent on training and skills, and could vary from screening and identification of eligible study subjects among hospitalized patients to management and/or mining of our registry database. Students will learn about the process and challenges of clinical research, including both regulatory and patient-specific issues, and about the conditions of interest for our group (primarily sepsis and ARDS).
Additional Project Information: We have conducted and continue to conduct projects involving hospital epidemiology and healthcare disparities, particularly as they focus on critical care conditions such as sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). See Martin GS, New England Journal of Medicine, 2003 as an example. Students will learn about the conditions of interest and about database manipulation, basic epidemiological principles and statistics.
Student Requirements: Understanding of human physiology is helpful as is previous experience working or volunteering in a medical environment.
Accepts 1st year students? Y
Accepts 2nd year students? Y
Suggested Reading (References):
(1) Martin GS, Mangialardi RJ, Wheeler AP, Dupont WD, Morris JA, Bernard GR. A randomized controlled clinical trial of albumin and furosemide therapy in hypoproteinemic patients with acute lung injury. Crit Care Med 2002; 30(10): 2175-82.
(2) Martin GS, Moss M, Wheeler AP, Mealer M, Morris JA, Bernard GR. A randomized controlled trial of furosemide with or without albumin in hypoproteinemic acute lung injury patients. Crit Care Med 2005; 33(8): 1681-87.
(3) Martin GS, Mannino DM, Eaton S, Moss M. The Epidemiology of Sepsis in the United States from 1979 through 2000. N Engl J Med 2003; 348(16): 1546-54.
(4) Esper AM, Moss M, Lewis CA, Nisbet R, Mannino DM, Martin GS. The Role of Infection and Co-Morbidity: Factors that Influence Disparities in Sepsis. Crit Care Med 2006; 34(10): 2576-82.
(5) Berkowitz DM, Danai PA, Eaton S, Moss M, Martin GS. Accurate characterization of extravascular lung water in acute respiratory distress syndrome. Crit Care Med 2008; 36(6): 1803-09.
Techniques used in this lab: See above, within the project descriptions.
|
|
